Scotch Whisky Production & Distillation Flashcards
7 cards from real CSP practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Scotch Whisky Production & Distillation flashcards as text
What is the primary purpose of the 'worm tub' condenser in traditional Scotch distilleries?
Answer: To cool and condense spirit vapors using a coiled copper pipe submerged in cold water
A worm tub is a traditional condenser where a coiled copper pipe (the worm) sits in a tub of cold water, condensing spirit vapors back into liquid.
What term describes the practice of using the same casks repeatedly for maturation in Scotch whisky production?
Answer: Re-fill
In Scotch whisky, casks used more than once are called 're-fill' casks, with each subsequent fill imparting less wood influence than the first fill.
Which of the following correctly describes the 'cut points' during spirit still distillation?
Answer: Points where the distiller switches from foreshots to hearts, and hearts to feints
Cut points are where the distiller divides the distillate run into foreshots (heads), hearts (the usable middle cut), and feints (tails), based on flavour and alcohol strength.
In Scotch whisky production, what is 'lyne arm angle' primarily known to influence?
Answer: The reflux level and thus the weight and flavour of the spirit
The angle of the lyne arm (the pipe connecting the still head to the condenser) affects how much vapour returns as reflux, influencing whether the spirit is lighter or heavier in character.
What is the legal minimum copper pot still charge size stipulated for Scotch malt whisky distillation?
Answer: No minimum is specified
The Scotch Whisky Regulations 2009 do not specify a minimum still size for malt whisky; the requirement is simply that copper pot stills must be used.
What is the role of 'diastase' enzymes in Scotch whisky production?
Answer: They break down starch into fermentable sugars during mashing
Diastase (comprising alpha- and beta-amylase enzymes) is produced during malting and converts grain starches into fermentable sugars during the mashing process.
Which type of still is legally required for the production of Single Malt Scotch Whisky?
Answer: Pot still made of copper
The Scotch Whisky Regulations 2009 mandate that Single Malt Scotch Whisky must be distilled in copper pot stills.